5. Highlight the rewards of giving. Nothing
lifts a child’s disappointment more quickly
than giving a heartfelt gift to someone
else. Shifting the emphasis from receiving
to giving helps children see the exchange
of presents from a different perspective.
Kids love picking out gifts for other people. In addition to helping kids thoughtfully choose gifts for friends and family,
choose a charity, toy drive, food pantry or
other group and lend a hand.
6. Make a "family wish list" together and be
sure to include non-material wishes—such
as taking a walk in the snow or drinking
hot cocoa by the fire. These wishes can be
granted through “coupons” when it comes
time to open gifts, or woven into the
weeks surrounding the holidays to extend
the celebration beyond one "special" day.
7. Focus on the "magic" of the season -which does not come from lots of toys.
Get past the gift grab by making new
holiday traditions. Make time for listening to seasonal music, baking treats, making decorations or crafting simp